Bornean Families

Polypedates otilophus

File-eared Tree Frog

Polypedates otilophus is spectacular, large tree frog with prominent, sharp ridges behind the eye, above the ear. Coloration is pale brown to tan. The striped pattern on the thighs is characteristic for that species and is already evident in metamorphs.

This frog is most likely seen at a suitable breeding pond where adults perch in 1-4 m height on vegetation. Although mostly encountered in lowland settings, we found individuals as high as 1.100 m asl. For reproduction they prefer stagnant pools of water in the forest (uprooted trees, pig wallows) with turbid, muddy water. They deposit their eggs in foam nests attached to branches and trunks overhanging water.

Size of adults: up to 80 mm in males, 100 mm snout-vent length in females.

Tadpoles grow large (up to 60 mm). Coloration is homogenous greenish-grey. The belly is white. The tail as a fleshy patch in the first half of its length. During the day tadpoles rest at the bottom of the pond. Only occasionally they will swim up to the surface and take a quick gulp of air (sometimes King Fishers waiting for them!).

During the night, tadpoles can be seen more exposed and even floating close to the surface. The smallest disturbance will make them rush to the bottom and hide between leave litter and mud.